New deal for Leadbitter

Midfielder extends Sunderland stay

Last updated: 27th June 2008

leadbitter grant

Leadbitter: New deal

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Sunderland midfielder Grant Leadbitter has signed a new three-year contract at the Stadium of Light.

The 22-year-old's current deal was due to expire in 2009, but he has now put pen to paper on an agreement to stay with the Black Cats until 2011.

The England Under 21 international made 17 Premier League starts under Roy Keane last season as the club retained their top-flight status after promotion from the Championship.

Drive

And Leadbitter is eager to build on his displays last term and become a regular for the North East outfit.

He told the club's official website: "I'm pleased to sign. I'm happy at the club and I want to help drive it forward next season, I want to kick on."

And Keane added: "Grant's done a good job since I came to the club.

"He's got quality and he's enthusiastic - a good character. He's maturing well."